After seeing Silversun Pickups in Tulsa with OK Go and Snow Patrol I knew I had to see them again. I found out that they were playing The Conservatory in Oklahoma City on March 14th, so I bought Carnavas, their 2006 release, and it never left my CD player.

I drove past slowly the first time, looking at the line that stretched from the door and around the building. I should have bought tickets before hand instead of relying on the voice over the phone that said the show wasn’t sold out and they would be selling them at the door.

I stood in line with my friend through most of the first act, El Paso Hot Button, but we were lucky enough to catch his last two songs. The ceilings were low and it was dark with people pressed in tight. Already the air was hot and smelling of 6 point beer and sweat. You aren’t supposed to smoke in the building but I saw one or two embers glowing in the back, cupped in hands and pressed quickly to mouths.

El Paso Hot Button turned out to be one guy who does it all. Everything. It sounded as if a full band was on stage from the outside and once I saw who it was I was amazed. Hugely talented he put on a great show.

The second act was Colormusic an Oklahoma band from Stillwater. The quintet all had tight white jeans and a white turtleneck warm up jacket zipped all the way up. The guys all had full beards as well. They had used white tape to cover all of their instruments; drums, guitars, and even amps had bits peeling off. A projector was set up and food coloring and water were used to create a very groovy feel. The music had the same feel as well. Upbeat and retro.

Silversun Pickups finally took to the little stage. Brian Aubert (guitar/vocals), Nikki Monninger (bass), Christopher Guanlao (drums), and Joe Lester (keyboards). No matter what anyone else says I have decided they are great. I love the lyrics, I love the music, and they have a great energy on stage.